The long-awaited Horncastle flood storage reservoir can now be used to reduce flood risk to hundreds of local homes and businesses.

Although there is still some work to complete on-site, the reservoir is finished enough that it can be used to store excess water from the River Bain during high flows.

The reservoir, which can hold 1.5 million cubic metres of water – the same as 600 Olympic-sized swimming pools – will reduce risk to 169 properties in the town.

Deborah Campbell, Flood and Coastal Risk Manager at the Environment Agency, said although the project isn’t completely finished yet, local people would already be benefitting.

She said:

We know people living in Horncastle will be pleased that this important flood defence is near completion and can store excess water from the Bain.

We’re currently working to finish the final profiling of the embankment, install erosion protection and commission the mechanical and electrical items. Although the reservoir can’t be used to full capacity until these works are completed, we expect to be finished this spring, weather permitting.

We’re working closely with all our partners to ensure this major project is complete as soon as possible.

Work is also expected to finish this spring on two flood storage reservoirs on the River Lud near Louth, although these both were declared fit for use at the end of last year.

Together, the three reservoirs reduce flood risk to more than 350 properties.

They were constructed in partnership with Lincolnshire County Council, East Lindsey District Council, Louth and Horncastle Town Councils, Anglian Water, and Lindsey Marsh and Witham Third Internal Drainage Boards.

Cllr Colin Davie, Executive Member for the Environment, said:

We’re all well aware of the misery that flooding causes, so it’s important we do all we can to protect those that are at risk.

I’m delighted to see local partners working together so successfully, significantly reducing the likelihood of flooding for local communities.

“Flooding is an issue which has a major impact on communities when it happens and anything we can do to support flood prevention schemes can only be to the benefit of the area.

“We are pleased to have supported the flood alleviation schemes in Horncastle and Louth with £1,000,000 in funding, with the EA, County Council and town councils to help reduce the chance of future flooding.”

Horncastle Town Councillor Fiona Martin said:

This is excellent news. Horncastle Town Council have been working on this project since 1981 and working with partners’ persistence has finally paid off.

Although the reservoirs will reduce flood risk, no defence can ever completely guarantee that flooding won’t occur – therefore the Environment Agency is reminding people to take steps to reduce their own risk by calling 0345 988 1188 or visiting the Floodline sign-up page.

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